By Tara Murray
Caroline Springs George Cross showed its character as it returned to the winners list in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition on Friday night.
The Georgies had dropped its past couple of games and slipped away from the top couple of teams.
It was a much better performance against Moreland City on Friday, winning 2-1.
“It was a massive challenge for us after the outcome of the previous week,” said coach Eric Vassiliadis
“It was a real test of character and mindset. We stayed confident and on the front foot and it was definitely the reaction I thought we would have.”
Vassiliadis said they didn’t make the most of their chances in the first half having had a fair bit of control.
He said they didn’t drop their heads and were able to find a way in the second half.
“I can understand why Moreland City has been getting results the last six weeks,” he said. “We stayed calm and we stayed brave.
“When the game is nil-all and you’re expected to win and you’re missing chances, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
“We were brave and there was a bit of quality from both Jaiden Diamantis and Josh Joshua Whiteley. Triantafilos Skapetis also stepped up.”
Vassiliadis said he thought they had the better of the game and deserved to get the win.
He said while they’ve had some mixed results the past few weeks, it will hold them in good stead for the future.
“It was about learning from last week,” he said. “We owned it and were in the same position as last week and we were brave this time.”
The Georiges sit fifth on the ladder after nine games. Vassiliadis said he feels they should have an extra six points on the board at this stage and be up there with the top couple of sides.
“I think everyone expected it to be tight this season,” he said. “There’s been some surprising results and it’s about momentum.”
The Georgies face Melbourne City on Saturday in round 10.
Vassiliadis said it would be a challenge against Melbourne City’s academy side which is at the top of the ladder.
“There’s not better challenge,” he said. “We are confident we are up to the test and can not wait.”
Meanwhile, North Sunshine Eagles also returned to the winners list as they beat Melbourne SRBIJA on Saturday.
It was a convincing win for the Eagles, who scored three second half goals to get the 3-0 win. Kaan Elibol scored all three goals for the Eagles.
In the National Premier League, Green Gully and Melbourne Knights both suffered losses, while St Albans Saints were set to play on Monday night, after deadline.
